Dr. Ulla Kristiina Laakso, Psychiatrist, Psychopharmacologist

Schizophrenia Treatment in New York City

Dr. Ulla Kristiina Laakso is one of New York's most trusted psychiatric professionals, and cares about the well-being of every patient. Dr. Laakso is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, as well as a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Schedule an appointment at her psychiatric office, conveniently located on Manhattan's Upper East Side, for a comprehensive evaluation of psychological conditions.

Understanding Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia affects about 1% of people worldwide, and usually presents itself in young adulthood, between the ages of 15 and 25. Schizophrenia tends to affect women later in life, typically in the late twenties or early thirties, and is usually milder in comparison. While Childhood onset of the psychological condition is rare, it can present itself as early as age five.

Schizophrenia Symptoms

Symptoms of schizophrenia vary depending on the patient, as well as the categorization of the condition. Patients can experience symptoms in a continuous, progressive manner, or experience them in intervals.

Friends and family members typically notice the symptoms of schizophrenia before patients. These symptoms can include a change in personality, appearance, or hygiene, as well as an indifference toward others or to obligations such as work or school.

Symptoms of schizophrenia can be described in three ways:

1. "Positive" symptoms
• Hallucinations, such as hearing imaginary voices or seeing people in the room who are not present
• Delusions of conspiracy or grandeur
2. "Negative" symptoms
• Blunted affect
• Difficulty taking care of one's self
• Social withdrawal – alogia, or amotivation
3. "Cognitive" symptoms
• Difficulty remembering directions or discussions
• Difficulty paying attention

Causes of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a complex condition with a number of factors contributing to its presence. Genetics appears to play a role, as individuals with a family history of schizophrenia may be more likely to develop symptoms. Additionally, environmental factors may trigger schizophrenia in those who are already at risk genetically. Environmental stressors include infection during prenatal development, as well as stressful psychological experiences.

Many professionals believe these two contributing factors, genetics and environment, are intertwined, and that patient's with a genetic predisposition can develop the condition during stressful times. Some suggest that patients should complete a full neurological evaluation, including CT scan and MRI to rule out confounding medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms.

Schizophrenia Treatment in New York City

Social and family support seem to improve the condition's symptoms, as well as a number of medications aimed at curbing the condition. Dr. Laakso has years of experience treating patients suffering from schizophrenia, and does so with the utmost care and concern for the patient's well-being. Each of her patients will receive highly individualized treatment.

For more information on schizophrenia treatment in New York City, contact Dr. Laakso's Manhattan office for a consultation.